Jethro Tull are a British band formed in Blackpool in 1967, thanks to the flair of Ian Anderson, who is still the frontman. The band’s name is a tribute to Jethro Tull, an agronomist who revolutionized modern agriculture.
Jethro Tull are famous for their unique mix of rock, folk, blues and classical music, creating a sound that ranges between tradition and innovation. Ian Anderson, with his virtuosity on the flute, has given an unmistakable stamp to the band’s music.
Jethro Tull are an iconic band, known above all for the transverse flute played by their talented leader, Ian Anderson. They started with a blues sound, but over the years they explored different genres, from folk rock to hard rock, from progressive rock to classical music.
Their career in Progressive Rock and Folk Rock has been long and brilliant, with many lineup changes. Despite this, they are still active and continue to perform and release music.
Their first album, “This Was” (1968), was recorded with the original lineup, which included Anderson and guitarist Mick Abrahams. After Abrahams was replaced by Martin Barre, the band kept playing for over fifty years, with many other musicians joining and then leaving.
After “Stand Up” (1969), they released a run of incredible albums, including “Benefit” (1970), “Aqualung” (1971) and “Thick as a Brick” (1972). These last two are considered masterpieces not only of the band, but of progressive rock in general.
Even if they never again reached the same heights of excellence, they continued to produce outstanding albums at least until 1978, especially with “Minstrel in the Gallery” (1975), “Songs from the Wood” (1977) and “Heavy Horses” (1978).
Even their lesser-known albums would be the ambition of any rock band. Their writing and melodies are always top quality, as you can hear in “War Child” (1974) and “Too Old To Rock ’n’ Roll: Too Young To Die!” (1976), which stands out precisely for its melody.
From 1978 onward, they released solid upper-mid-level albums that are always enjoyable to listen to. An important feature is that they are mainly works by the leader, Ian Anderson.
Over the years, Jethro Tull have sold over 60 million records worldwide, earning 11 gold records and 5 platinum records in the United States alone. I’m sure we’ll be hearing about them for a long time yet.
Jethro Tull, since their start in 1967, have seen many lineup changes. The only constant has been Ian Anderson, the charismatic leader who has guided the group with his unique music. And then there’s Martin Barre, a true legend, who played guitar in the band for almost 50 years.
Current Lineup
Ian Anderson - vocals, flute, acoustic guitar (1967–2011 / 2017-present)
Jack Clark - electric guitar (2024-present)
David Goodier - bass (2007–2011 / 2017-present)
John O'Hara - keyboards (2007-2011 / 2017-present)
Scott Hammond – drums, percussion (2011 / 2017–present)
Main Former Members
Martin Barre - guitar (1968-2011)
Glenn Cornick - bass (1967-1970; died in 2014)
Clive Bunker - drums (1967-1971)
Jeffrey Hammond - bass (1970-1975)
John Glascock - bass (1975-1979; died in 1979)
Barriemore Barlow - drums (1971-1980)
John Evan - keyboards (1969-1980)
Peter-John Vettese - keyboards (1982-1986)
Dave Pegg - bass (1979-1995)
Doane Perry - drums (1984-2011)
